My Israel Journey…40 Years and Counting

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Forty years ago this summer, I went to Israel for the first time on the NFTY Archeological Seminar. That summer was a transforming experience for me. I fell in love with the land as we traversed the Sinai desert (which was then part of Israel). The following summer, I lived on Kibbutz Nahal-oz, a kibbutz bordering Gaza. It was there that I fell in love with the people of Israel and made life long friends.

10577169_10204505406220361_223767977190053775_nThese summers cemented my desire to study in Israel, learn Hebrew, and teach about Israel. I studied at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and lived for several years in Tel Aviv. That desire also brought my three children and me to Crane Lake Camp in the summer of 2000. I started working in the office, and then the Drama Director. However, when Debby became the director, I found my true calling. She asked me to join the Limud Staff. The following year, I became the Rosh Mishlachat, the head of the Israeli delegation. When Debby suggested this, I replied that I wasn’t Israeli. Even though I can speak Hebrew, I wasn’t sure this was a good idea. But Debby can be very convincing – so I reluctantly said yes. This was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Each year, Crane Lake brings a group of Israelis to serve as counselors and coaches at camp. These young people have recently completed their army service, and have been trained by the Jewish agency to serve as young emissaries for Israel. At Crane Lake, they serve as sports coaches, lifeguards, art specialists, dance specialists, ropes staff, general counselors, and some even return to become members of the Senior Staff.

Screen-Shot-2015-07-29-at-2.57.58-PMThe impact of these young Israelis is apparent throughout the camp community. They share their daily lives with their campers, and tell them about the families. They explain about their favorite sports teams and their army service, and they teach their campers the most popular Israeli songs and dances. Through these one on one connections, our campers and staff learn about Israel’s vibrant culture and history. The Mishlachat brings Israel to life at Crane Lake. The personal connections made here during the summer continue long after the summer ends. Many of the Shlichim are welcomed into our own homes, and they return that hospitality when we visit in Israel.

It has been a privilege and a pleasure, to work with these amazing young people these past few summers. Their contribution to Crane Lake has been remarkable. They have helped us all to truly become part of Am Israel, the nation of Israel.

By Lisa Tenenbaum, Israel Engagement Director